Former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg has his eyes set on a new target: pro-self defense Sheriff David Clarke of Milwaukee County. According to the Washington Times, Bloomberg has dumped $150,000 for advertising into the race between Clarke and Milwaukee Police Lt. Chris Moews, who are running against each other in a Democratic primary.
Clarke and Moews have traded barbs in the past regarding the best way to handle crime in Milwaukee and surrounding areas. Clarke also has a long standing feud over firearm self-defense with Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett, who has endorsed Moews.
Clarke rose to national fame after telling Milwaukee County residents in a series of radio ads that they should arm themselves to protect against criminals.
"I'm Sheriff David Clarke, and I want to talk to you about something personal: Your safety. It's no a longer a spectator sport. I need you in the game. But are you ready? With officers laid off and furloughed, simply calling 911 and waiting is no longer your best option. You could beg for mercy from a violent criminal, hide under the bed or you can fight back. But are you prepared? Consider taking a certified safety course in handling of firearms, so you can defend yourself until we get there. You have a duty to protect yourself and your family. We're partners now. Can I count on you?" Clarke stated in one radio ad from early 2013.
"This is Sheriff David Clarke. Violent crime went up nearly 10 percent in Milwaukee, are the next victim? You don't have to be but that's your call. Armed criminals are being put back on the street by a soft-on-crime court system even before the ink dries on police reports. Are you prepared to handle a life or death threat? Wisconsin's Personal Protection Act now gives you the same advantage that I have. Now it's the crook who has to wonder what you might do. It can be a great equalizer but you always have to think survival. Remember, it's you and me now," Clarke stated in another ad last year.
Clarke suggested innocent citizens take safety courses and learn how to defend themselves from violent attackers, why is the world would Mayor Bloomberg allocate financial resources to fight him on those things?
In case you're interested, here is Clarke's speech at the NRA convention in Indianapolis earlier this year.